Royal Tannenbaum was a gifted composer and songwriter whose life unfolded in the backdrop of the roaring twenties. Royal's days were immersed in crafting songs that resonated with the era's zeitgeist, yet his nights were haunted by a profound loneliness that seemed to echo through his soul. As the years unfolded, Royal found solace in the company of his music, a faithful companion that never left his side. Decades passed, and Royal's days turned into a routine of composing in solitude until in his late 60s fate intervened in the guise of Hariett Gregorson-Smyth, a vocalist and fellow songwriter. In Hariett, Royal found a muse, a confidante, and most unexpectedly, a companion who understood the silent symphony of his heart. Their bond blossomed amidst shared notes and melodies, weaving a tapestry of companionship that Royal had yearned for all his life. One fateful night, in the throes of consummating their relationship, Royal's heart faltered, succumbing to a final crescendo that silenced the composer forever. To comfort herself, Harriet had published Royal's last composition, "Girls Don't Like Me," —a song that served not only as a tribute to their relationship, but also as a poignant melody that spoke simultaneously of the frustration of prolonged loneliness and the cathartic nature of eventually finding love.

Vocals and orchestration: Michael Johnson
Orchestra: The Reclinerland Symphony Orchestra

Recorded in 2023 to 2024 at Reclinerland HQ in Paris, France. Mixed and mastered by Michael Johnson and Jarkko Heiniö.